Ronald S. Estes

SOUTH PARIS – Ronald S. Estes, 89, died Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022, with his two daughters by his side.

Ronald was born in Westbrook, Maine on March 12, 1933, to James Walter and Emma L. (Gray) Estes. He grew up in Albany and went to school in Waterford until the seventh grade when his family moved to South Paris, graduating from Paris High School, class of 1951. After high school, he attended the Auburn School of Commerce and later enlisted in the U.S. Army – Airborne Division with an honorable discharge in 1956.

Ronald was a very hard worker, working at various managerial jobs throughout his life along with running a painting contracting business with his brother, Roland and nephew, Reed for many years. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of South Paris which he never missed a Sunday Service and enjoyed helping with all church functions and events. He was also a member of the Paris School Alumni. He kept very active in life with a great passion for hiking, skiing, dancing and playing cards with his friends, to name a few. He was always there helping those in need and was recognized for donating countless pints of blood in his life time. He also was often seen visiting the area nursing homes with his dog, Jack.

Ronald was a competitive soul and certainly did his share of testing. He enjoyed being with his family and friends.

Ronald is survived by his six children, Roxanne (Gregg) Campbell, Dale Estes, Gregory Estes, Talley Estes, Wayne Estes and Darryl (Cheryl) Estes; along with his seven grandchildren, Matthew Estes (Ashley), Jillian (Eric) Diffin, Karley Estes (Sam), Ryanne Kahkonen (Tyler), Brandon Campbell and Patrick Kahkonen and his 12 great-grandchildren with the thirteenth on the way.

He is also survived by his (younger) twin brother, Roland (Rose) Estes and also his partner Bernice “Bunny” Greene since the summer of 2005 in which they enjoyed many wonderful times together.

Ronald was predeceased by his parents; a brother, Guy Boutelle; a sister, Phyllis Sorrentino, a special nephew, Reed Saunders and a daughter-in-law, Edythe “Deedee” Estes.

A special thanks to the staff at the Maine Veterans Home of South Paris for the exceptional care of Ronald over the past years.

Ronald will be sadly missed and, although gone, he will remain in our hearts forever, along wit hhis many words of wisdom….. “am I right or am I right” (in his own words). Until we’re together again.

Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris. Online condolences may be shared with his family at http://www.chandlerfunerals.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Maine Veterans Home of South Paris or the first Congregational Church of South Paris.


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